Opinions on Ceriatone Trainwreck Expression?

[majikmarker]

Hi all- I am new to the forums and I can see that this is a great resource of people who are incredibly knowledgeable about Trainwreck clones. So I am looking for your expert opinions on what is probably a very subjective question: What do you think of the Ceriatone Trainwreck Expression? I haven't heard very many good audio samples of the amp in action, but I thought some Youtube stuff I heard sounded promising. I'd really love to hear your opinions, and also some comparisons between the Ceriatone and other clones. What sounds best to your ear and why? Thanks for your expertise. I am just starting to wade into the Trainwreck clone waters and I think your opinions will be a huge help in getting me on the right track.

[Cantplay]

I have not heard the amp in question in person.

In general though I prefer to support local business.

A local builder can work with you and voice the amp exactly to your taste and its synergy to the guitar and cabinet.

You'll find that there are subtle parts and sound differences in most of the original amps.

You can buy a cookie cutter amp, or get one that is custom made specifically for you. It's your call.

John

[sliberty]

Generally speaking, the only issue with Ceriatone TW clones are the transformers. I built a Rocket from Nik for a friend, and used the standard Heyboer / Dynaclone iron, and the amp is wonderful. Only problem was that the punched holes for the trannies were very different, and I had to butcher the chassis a bit.

I believe you can have Nik omit certain holes if you know you will be using your own iron, but I didn't request that.

[M Fowler]

I had a Ceriatone TW Express and it was harsh and rude sounding, freaking too loud. I tried changing from 6k6 to 5k2 OT primaries with 5k2 sounding the best to my ears.

However, my own build using Pacific transformers was much better sounding.

I built an rjguitars.net PCB version which was great sounding as well as the last Express I built using Martin Mannings eyelet (PCB type) board was a very good sounding Express using Magnetic Components transformers.

You could get a Ceriatone kit without transformers and build it that way. I really think it's the transformers that make the Express what it is. I would look for old hifi transformers for darker earlier TW tone. Also, I think the Edcor transformers provide a darker tone over Heyboer and Pacific.

Mark

[geetarpicker]

In my experience a Ceriatone Express (with their transformers) will be louder with 6V6s in it then a Pacific transformer build with EL34s! Ok if you plan to use an attenuator, power scaling, and/or don't mind it loud. That said, their factory builds are nicely wired and soldered and are very fairly priced.

[Roe]

mine sounds surprisingly good after some tweaking. It got some attention at an ampfest. I've changed all caps though to PVCs and BC 450v filters